For Elliot Block ’25, music has always been an integral part of his life. His passion for classical music began at an early age, sparked by his love for both the viola and the piano. Now, as the first chair violist of the PHS Orchestra as well as co-president of its cabinet, Block continues to explore his passion in chamber groups and on stage.

When did you start playing the viola and why did you choose it?

I started viola when I was seven years old, [but] I didn’t choose it. My mom chose it for me and I didn’t like it at first, but when I was 10 or 11 years old, I started playing in chamber groups at summer camps, and I realized I really liked that. That got me into it a little more.

Who would you consider your inspirations?

I also play piano, [which] is my [preferred] instrument. Some of my inspirations are the top performers for piano, like Martha Argerich, Rubinstein, [and] Horowitz. But there are a ton of great performers and musicians.

Why are these artists your inspirations?

I think it’s primarily their playing style. All the musicians that I find inspiring are able to approach their instrument in different ways, but always successfully put their feeling into the music, and also bring feeling out of the music. I really admire that, and I always try to do that whenever I’m playing in practice and performance.

What do you like about classical music?

There are a ton of things I like about classical music. It’s what I listen to most. The range of emotions that classical music can feature is really vast, and there’s always a piece that fits the mood I’m in.

What do you consider the most challenging aspect of classical music?

I think the most challenging aspect is the combination of technique and sensitivity to feeling. It’s sometimes easy to focus on one or the other, but both are necessary to be really great, and that can be tough.

How do you handle pressure from auditions or performances?

I used to be really bad at that, and I kind of still am really bad at that, but I make sure that there’s no tension in my body, and I really practice clearing my head before playing, so that I can replicate it in front of an audience. It never really is easy, but I think clearing the tension is the most important thing.

What is your favorite memory from PHS orchestra?

Going on the European tour last spring was really fun and [I bonded] with the orchestra. Through that, I made a lot of new friends ... It’s made this year a lot more fun too.

Are you planning on pursuing music in higher education or as a career?

Definitely. I want to study piano and classical music in college. Ideally, it would also make a career. But I know that music will be with me for my entire life, either way.